Lung Cancer on rise in S.C. men
The Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) Darlington County Cancer Profile, published in June 2022, shows lung cancer was the number one most commonly diagnosed cancer and the number one leading cause of cancer death from 2015-2019, followed by colorectal cancer ranking number two in cancer deaths and prostate cancer ranking number three in cancer deaths. The South Carolina Cancer Alliance (Alliance) is working with communities to implement the Men’s Cancer Initiative (MCI) to combat lung, colorectal, and prostate cancer mortality rates throughout the state. MCI strategies are designed to navigate men through barriers to a medical home or primary care provider for appropriate care.
According to the South Carolina Central Cancer Registry and DHEC, in South Carolina, approximately 3,896 people are diagnosed with lung cancer, and 2,797 die yearly. Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and exposure to secondhand smoke, asbestos, and radon contributes to lung cancer for non-smoking adults. Approximately 2,166 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and 829 die from the disease each year. Colorectal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in both men and women, and even though it is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths, it is also one of the most preventable. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the United States, and the rate of new cancers is much higher in African-American men.
“Along with navigating men to medical homes, community mobilizing, and collaboration positively responds to these alarming statistics. We build alliances because this work cannot be done alone. It is vital to have community support to decrease disparities and increase opportunities for community members to access resources meant to enhance their quality of life,” says Patricia Sullivan-Steward from the Alliance.
Health Equity Councils (HECs) are representatives from health agencies such as federally qualified healthcare centers (FQHCs), church leaders, local government, nonprofit organizations, and community advocates. Members of HECs lead and implement evidenced-based solutions with the support and guidance of the Alliance. Examples of some of their work are the Faith-Based Initiative, Barbershop Navigation Program, Women’s Influencer Program, and community awareness activities. To join the Darlington County Health Equity Council or to participate in programs, call 803-920-9895.
The mission of the South Carolina Cancer Alliance is to reduce the impact of cancer on ALL South Carolinians. For more information about the Alliance, visit www.sccancer.org.